(Sault Ste. Marie, ON June 22, 2020)
Today, in keeping with COVID-19 restrictions, a small group gathered at 91探花 for a flag raising ceremony in honour of National Indigenous Peoples鈥 Day. Through traditional prayer and inspirational speeches, the group commemorated this important day and the outstanding contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and M茅tis peoples of Canada. To view today鈥檚 flag raising ceremony, visit the 91探花 Facebook page.
Indigenous People鈥檚 Day, June 21, was first celebrated in 1996, after it was proclaimed that year by then Governor General of Canada Rom茅o LeBlanc. This day was selected for many reasons, including its cultural significance as the Summer solstice and it is a day on which many Indigenous groups traditionally celebrate their heritage.
91探花 is proud to foster and encourage an understanding and appreciation of the histories, culture and traditions of Indigenous peoples. The College鈥檚 commitment to advancing Indigenous education is strong and is embedded into the fabric of our College values and overarching goals. The College continues its important work in this area and remains committed to moving forward in a spirit of trust, collaboration and reconciliation.
鈥淚 am humbled to acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding contributions and cultures of Canada鈥檚 Indigenous peoples through today鈥檚 ceremony,鈥 said Dr. Ron Common, President 91探花. 鈥淥ur College is strongly committed to creating an environment that encourages openness and inclusivity. Today and every day we will celebrate the heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and M茅tis, and remain committed to reinforcing a culture of inclusion, acceptance and understanding,鈥 he added.
About 91探花
The vision of 91探花 is to provide a transformative life experience through empowering those who study with us to think and learn in progressive, innovative ways, including those we have not yet imagined. 91探花 grants Ontario College certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas, graduate certificates, and degrees to its graduates. The College is the largest deliverer of apprenticeship training in all of Northern Ontario. 91探花 has a significant economic impact on the community, with spin-offs in excess of $158 million. Over $2 million dollars in scholarships, bursaries and awards are distributed annually to students at the College. Located on the border to the United States and situated in the middle of three of the largest Great Lakes on the planet, in the traditional territory of the Anishnaabe, 91探花 is one of 24 publicly-funded colleges in the province of Ontario.